“IST TO BE NUMBER ONE” Workshop: Empowering Youth Leaders for Drug Prevention and a Smoke-Free University

The International School of Tourism (IST), Surat Thani Rajabhat University, organized the “IST TO BE NUMBER ONE: Drug Prevention and Smoke-Free University” leadership workshop from December 13–14, 2025, between 09:00 and 16:00 hrs. at the IST 80th Anniversary Building. The project emphasized an intensive workshop process that encouraged student participation through hands-on practice, critical thinking, analysis, and creative collaboration.

This workshop aimed to empower student leaders to develop knowledge alongside practical skills in drug prevention and raise awareness regarding the impacts of cigarettes and e-cigarettes. It also sought to drive the policy of a smoke-free university. The sessions provided a platform for students to express themselves creatively while honing soft skills such as leadership, public communication, teamwork, and problem-solving through group activities, brainstorming, and campaign design.

During the event, students engaged in a “Learning by Doing” approach. Activities included analyzing drug-related issues within the university context, simulating youth leadership roles, practicing creative communication for campaigning, and planning actionable “TO BE NUMBER ONE” and smoke-free university activities suitable for the faculty and university levels.

This workshop aligns with the guidelines of the TO BE NUMBER ONE project, a national initiative under the royal auspices of Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi, which focuses on creating opportunities and creative spaces for youth to develop their potential. This is integrated with Surat Thani Rajabhat University’s “100% Smoke-Free University” policy to foster a safe and healthy environment.

The outcome of this workshop is expected to establish IST TO BE NUMBER ONE student leaders who possess the knowledge, skills, and readiness to act as change agents. They will be equipped to design and drive concrete campaigns against drugs and smoking, build strong youth networks, support the values of being “Smart, Good, and Happy,” and promote the sustainable quality development image of the International School of Tourism.

The "IST TO BE NUMBER ONE" Leadership Workshop, organized by the International School of Tourism, addresses critical social issues alongside human capital development. This project directly responds to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, specifically regarding Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) and Quality Education (SDG 4), through the creation of strong youth leaders and a drug-free, smoke-free educational environment.

Key Alignments:

1. Health Promotion and Substance Prevention: The project takes a proactive approach to preventing substance abuse and tobacco use among youth, which are major health risk factors, supporting the smoke-free university policy to ensure clean air and well-being.

2. Future Skills Development: The workshop activities focus on building 21st-century skills (Soft Skills) such as leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork, which are essential for economic growth and decent work.

Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)